Portable computing system, apparatus and method

ABSTRACT

A computing system comprising a pocket personal computer and a reader are disclosed. The pocket PC is credit card-sized and comprises flash memory, and optionally a processor and a GPS chip. In some embodiments, the pocket PC also includes an operating system. The reader includes a monitor, a keyboard with docking port and an optional processor and at least one input/output USB connector. A user cannot interact with the pocket PC without the reader. The reader is a non-functioning “shell” without the pocket PC, however, when they are connected the system becomes a fully functional personal computer. To log on, a user provides security information, for example, a password or biometrics, such as fingerprints. The credit card size and capabilities of the pocket PC allows a user to easily carry virtually their entire computer in a pocket for use anywhere there is a reader. In addition, the pocket PC provides security against unauthorized use, even if lost or stolen, since a password or fingerprints are required to access to the device.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. application Ser. No. 10/461,303, which is incorporated by reference in its entirety. This application claims priority to U.S. patent application No. 61/028,373, filed on Feb. 13, 2008, the entire contents of which are incorporated by reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to computing systems and in particular to a portable computer that is small in size so as to be easily carried, and yet have the capabilities of a conventional large scale computer, and also secure to address concerns as to data theft and corruption.

BACKGROUND

Computers have historically been large in size based on the components required for providing sufficient computing capabilities, such as mainframe computers. With the advent of personal computers, computers which once would fill the size of a room were able to be reduced down in size so as to be contained within a single desktop device. However, desktop computers which require a large tower to house the processing components, a monitor and keyboard are not conducive to be taken from place to place. Instead, laptop computers were developed to contain the computer processing capabilities, monitor and keyboard within a smaller unitary package, in order to allow transport from place to place. However, laptop computers are still fairly large in size and also sacrifice quality as compared to desktop computers. Moreover, desktop, laptop and mainframe computers all suffer from being susceptible to data corruption from viruses or worms, and also to data theft from hackers. While computers need to be immune to these threats, they also need to be portable and convenient to use easily almost anywhere.

There is a need for a computing system that is portable, can be used in a number of different applications, and protects sensitive information. The present invention provides a computing system that satisfies these needs and provides additional advantages.

SUMMARY

The present invention comprises in an exemplary embodiment a computing system comprised of a portable computer. The portable computer has all of the components of a fully functional, conventional general purpose computer, but is small is size, preferably the size of a credit card, so as to be easily carried in a wallet or ones pocket. In certain embodiments, the portable computer is operable only when used with a reader, which is described in more detail below. The portable computer reader supplies the means for a user to interact with the portable computer and the programs thereon; for example, the portable computer reader can comprise a monitor and/or a keyboard. In essence, the portable computer reader is a non-functioning “shell” when not connected to the portable computer. However, once the portable computer is connected to the portable computer reader, the portable computer and the portable computer reader create a fully operational computing system. The portable computer thus acts as the brain and the portable computer reader operates as the body which will perform the functions, however, without the brain, the body will do nothing.

When a user is finished, he or she simply removes the portable computer and can simply take it with him or her. Because the portable computer reader is a shell, none of the user's information is left behind. Thus, various embodiments do not make any information, including sensitive information, available to subsequent users of the portable computer reader. In addition, there is virtually no danger that the portable computer reader could be affected by a computer virus for this same reason, as there is no capability for the portable computer reader to retain any data from a previous person's use. As a result, the applications for the portable computer are almost limitless where security and privacy of content is a concern, and where there may be concern of corruption by viruses or worms. For example, applications include, but are not limited to, hotels, internet cafes or other public locations, such as libraries or universities, etc.

Further, various embodiments provide the versatility of a “Pocket PC” with the advantages and capabilities of a traditional computer. For example, the portable computer is easily transportable and the portable computer reader provides use of a full computer with as a full-sized screen, keyboard, etc.

Finally, in certain embodiments, the portable computer may comprise one or more flash memory devices or flash drives. A flash drive is a storage device that uses flash memory rather than conventional spinning platters to store data. Advantages of using flash memory or flash drives with the portable computer is that there is little delay time when starting up, such as is the case when booting conventional computers. Also, flash memory is non-volatile, which means that it does not need power to maintain the information stored in the device. As a result, the portable computer requires only low power for operation, which can be readily supplied by batteries or similar low power sources, such as solar cells. The flash memory can also be tailored to provide as much storage capacity as may be desired depending on the particular application.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a portable computer according to the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a portable computer according to the present invention.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a portable computer according to the present invention.

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a computing system according to the present invention.

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a computing system according to the present invention.

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a computing system according to the present invention.

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a computing system according to the present invention

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of various embodiments of a portable computer reader according to the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The following embodiments of the invention may be implemented using hardware or software or any combination of the two where desired. Various embodiments may also be implemented using commercially available technology.

The invention comprises, in various embodiments, a computing system having at least one portable computer, which may be referred to as a “Pocket PC,” and one or more portable computer readers. As illustrated in FIGS. 1-3, and in Applicant's co-pending patent application Ser. No. 10/461,303, in one exemplary embodiment, the portable computer comprises a card, preferable the size of a credit card so as to be easily carried in one's pocket or wallet. The portable computer reader, shown in FIGS. 4-7, comprises a reader, which is described in more detail below. The portable computer readers may comprise a main docking station that is a computer keyboard and monitor, phone or cell phone. Any of the portable computer readers may also include a card reader and/or a biometric reader, as described in more detail below.

In one embodiment, the portable computer is hand-held, transferable, removable and portable. As provided above, the computer is preferably a card. As shown in FIG. 1, in one embodiment (“Portable Computer ‘A’”), the computer is a card with a CPU, reader contacts and memory. As shown in FIG. 3 (“Portable Computer ‘C’”), in another embodiment, the computer may comprise only a memory and reader contacts. All of the components shown in FIGS. 1 and 3 may be on a surface of the card, preferably, embedded thereon, or may be internally within the card. The cards have embedded integrated circuits which can process information. This implies that it can receive input which is processed—by way of the ICC applications—and delivered as an output. The card may be of any desired size and thickness, which may also be attributed to desired capabilities and technologies used, such as memory/storage requirements. Dimensions are normally credit card size. Preferably, the card meets ID-1 of ISO/IEC 7810 standard, which defines card size as 85.60×53.98 mm. Thus, the card is generally no larger than approximately 90 mm by 60 mm and no greater than approximately 80 mm thick. The card may be other sizes such as ID-000 which is 25×15 mm. The card is preferably about 0.76 mm thick.

As shown in FIG. 2 (“Dual Layer Portable Computer ‘B’”), in one embodiment, the computer comprises at least two cards connected. Preferably, the cards are stacked one on top of the other but may be connected in other ways. The cards may be credit card sized, as described above. The cards may be stacked directly on top of one another or there may be a space between that may hold computing components. The top card may comprise a controller, CPU and GPS and a female connector on an edge. It may also comprise additional elements such as a GPS chip, processor, RFID crypto memory, logic element, specialized reader contact, controller, microprocessor, and means for interacting with the portable computer readers, such as pins, USB, etc. The bottom card may comprise all memory. It would be understood that the cards may comprise different elements than shown. In another embodiment, the portable computer contains its computing components within a housing so that the physical components are not easily removable from the portable computer. In this embodiment, the computer is preferably a box or rectangular prism but may take other shapes. The portable computer may take other forms larger or smaller than a credit card, for example, a compact disc, cell phone, PDA, Smartphone, etc.

Regardless of the form of the computer, in the embodiments shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the portable computer contains all of the components of a fully functional, conventional general purpose computer but, generally, is without means for interacting with the computer, as described below. “General purpose computer” means that the computer contains sufficient hardware and software that will enable a user to do many different things with the computer such as type documents, send e-mail, browse the Internet and play games. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 3, the portable computer comprises only a memory and ISO 7816 reader contacts for connecting to the portable computer readers.

As shown, at the least, the portable computer's components include a main or primary memory and a connector for connecting to a reader. A central processing unit (“CPU”) may reside in the card or the portable computer reader. For example, where minimal processing capabilities may be required, the CPU may readily be accommodated within the computer card. In addition, in embodiments where significant processing capabilities are desired, a larger sized CPU may be preferred, which may be easier to accommodate by locating the CPU in the portable computer reader, such as in the keyboard and/or monitor. Alternatively, the CPU may be located in the computer reader, as described below.

The CPU is preferably a microprocessor as is known in the art. The CPU, preferably, is designed for portability. As such, it may include 800 MHz of speed so that it uses less power, for example, 0.65 watts and is built to run without active cooling such as a fan. Such a processor may be an “ATOM” processor currently available from INTEL®. The main memory is accessible to the CPU. In one embodiment, there are levels of storage and the primary storage is accessible only to the CPU. The primary storage may comprise processor registers and cache, ROM, as well as BIOS, RAM, magnetic or optical storage. The primary memory may be volatile or non-volatile. The portable computer may also have a preferably, non-volatile, read-write, secondary storage, which may not be readable by the CPU. Secondary storage may comprise a hard drive or optical storage devices, such as CD and DVD drives, flash memory (e.g. USB sticks or keys), floppy disks, magnetic tape, paper tape, standalone RAM disks, and ZIP drives. Preferably, the secondary storage is formatted according to a file system format. Where the portable computer is desired to be particularly small, it may not contain a hard drive. Rather, it can contain only ROM and/or RAM, wherein the RAM may be a flash drive.

Loaded onto the memory, preferably, onto the RAM, is software that is executed in the central processing unit. Such software may include application software such as word processors, system software such as operating systems, which interface with hardware to provide the necessary services for application software, and middleware which controls and coordinates distributed systems. The applications may also include control applications. Control applications enable the portable computer to generate control signals interpretable by the portable computer reader, which is explained in more detail below. Control applications may generate a user interface on a display of the portable computer reader and receive user inputs into the portable computer reader, by means of the input/output devices in the portable computer reader, which are shown in FIGS. 4-7 and described below. The control applications translate the user inputs into control signals provided to the portable computer reader.

The system software may include device drivers, diagnostic tools, servers, windowing systems and utilities. In one embodiment, the portable computer comprises the hardware necessary to run the aforementioned software. In other embodiments, this hardware is a part of the portable computer reader. Application software may include business software, educational software, medical software, databases, word processing software and computer games. The software includes an operating system such as Microsoft Windows® or Windows Mobile, NetBSD, Mac OS X, Linux, Palm OS or Windows Mobile. The operating system may be capable of using the TCP/IP networking protocols, has a graphical interface and device drivers. The operating system may be placed on the portable computer by the manufacturer or later downloaded by the user. The capacity and speed of each core unit can be made compatible with the state-of-the-art computer science as with the enclosures used.

The portable computer may also comprise, but is not limited to, various activation means, a video display controller, SCSI controller, video card, a graphics processing unit, graphics card, graphics chip, sound card, sound interface such as an AC97 interface, sound producing means, input/output controller means, PCMCIA controller, a graphics controller and a serial controller, a power source, which may include an electrical transformer that regulates the electricity used by the computer and means for communication with outside sources of data and information. Preferably, the aforementioned components (CPU, RAM, hard drives, etc.) are attached to a motherboard. The motherboard may also include a PCI or a planar device for attaching peripheral devices to the motherboard or devices located on or in the portable computer reader. All of the aforementioned components (CPU, RAM, hard drives, etc.) may be attached to a motherboard. The motherboard may be within the portable computer or may be within the portable computer reader.

The portable computer may also comprise a GPS chip, a specialized reader contact, a logic element, a smart card device, and RFID crypto memory. The specialized reader contact is the interface to the ports/card readers' specialized readers. It utilizes ISO-7816 pattern locations for interface to the single chip smart card microprocessor, and AFNOR pattern locations for interface to the logic element. The logic element acts as the “policeman” of the card. It directs message traffic and interrogates readers and secure keys to allow access to the compartmentalized data contained in the flash memory. This device interacts with the smartcard chip and the GPS device over SPI communication links. Only if the correct security is met will data access be allowed. The RFID crypto memory is an ISO 14443 compliant contact-less RFID. This allows for expanded use of the card in proximity ID applications. For example, the portable computer may communicate with the reader in a contactless manner, via the RFID. The subsystem is powered up in the presence of an ISO 14443 compliant reader (or, the portable computer reader could be such a reader). Limited duplicate data is stored in encrypted form in CryptoRF memory for access by RFID systems employing the standard protocol. The smart card device is a specifically designed secure micro controller targeted for the existing smart card market, produced by ATMEL. The device runs specific application software that allows for standard smartcard, javacard, and secure partitioning control.

In addition, the portable computer may include security information in the software. The security information allows only authorized users to access certain information on the computer. Access information may include personal identification numbers, security questions, passwords, etc. The portable computer may also contain stored or baseline biometric information such as height, weight, blood type, voice and retinal patterns, fingerprints, pulse rate, etc. Preferably, the portable computer reader or computer would comprise means for reading the biometric information. Such means include, but are not limited to, a pulse reader, fingerprint reader, retinal scanner, voice recognition recorder, etc. For example, the system may include biometric mice as an input, which includes an integrated fingerprint reader either in the receiver or the mouse. Such biometric information, readers, storage means etc., are disclosed in Applicant's U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/054,519, the contents of which are incorporated by reference herein.

In most embodiments, the computer does not contain means for a user to interact directly with the computer. In other embodiments, the computer contains means for interacting therewith. By interacting directly it is meant that a user cannot access the software programs, hardware or other functionality such as sounds, visuals, etc., on the computer without a portable computer reader, which provides the means for accessing the computer, as described below.

As shown in FIGS. 4-7, such means for interacting with the computer may include a reader, which is preferably an input and output device. Such an input/output device may be, for example, a keyboard, display, mouse, speakers, etc. In one embodiment, the portable computer reader provides only means for a user to interact with or use the portable computer. The portable computer reader is a “shell” without the portable computer and, therefore, is inoperable for performing computing functions without the portable computer. Once the portable computer is connected to the portable computer reader, preferably, in a plug-and-play style, the system becomes a fully operational conventional computer capable of any known computing operation. When the portable computer is disconnected from the portable computer reader, the portable computer reader once again becomes a shell and the computer cannot be directly accessed unless re-connected to the portable computer reader or another portable computer reader.

As provided above, in one embodiment, the portable computer does not comprise means for a user to interact directly with the contents of the computer. For example, as shown in FIGS. 1-3, the portable computer does not have a display or monitor, a keyboard or keypad, voice input device, etc. Rather, such input devices are included on the portable computer readers. In other embodiments, the computer may have such input/output devices. For example, in one embodiment, the portable computer itself is a cell phone that can access the internet via a wireless network.

The portable computer preferably also has means for connecting to any portable computer reader, which means that it can be used virtually anywhere. “Connecting” refers to being attached or in communication with the portable computer reader by being affixed to, stored within or in operable communication with the portable computer reader. As shown in FIG. 2, the female connector may include one uniquely configured universal connector portable computer reader that mates with or fits against a power connector source or activating means in any of the portable computer readers in the system. As shown in FIGS. 4-6, the connecting means may also include a wireless connection between the portable computer and the portable computer readers. Thus, the portable computer may have a wireless transmitter and the portable computer readers have a receiver, or vice versa. The universal connector may be a USB-type connector. Regardless of the form of the connector, the connector will be configured to connect to every portable computer reader in the system and provide full computing function once connected. The means for communicating also provides communication or transfer of information over a bus or in a wireless fashion. Preferably, the computer and portable computer reader would support various wireless protocols including, without limitation, WiFi, Bluetooth™, Wymax, etc. For example, a wireless chip(s) may be contained on the card and/or portable computer reader to accommodate wireless communication with other devices or over the internet.

As provided above, and as shown in FIGS. 4-7, a computing system of the present embodiment also comprises at least one portable computer and a plurality of portable computer readers. In one embodiment, these portable computer readers are located at various locations that are spread out from one another so that a user can take his or her computer with him or her and use it in remote locations. For example, the portable computer readers can include readers located at central locations for access by numerous users, such as located in computer centers, libraries, universities, internet cafes and/or hotels, as examples. The main function of the portable computer reader is to allow a user to interact with the portable computer. In one embodiment, the portable computer reader is the only device that will allow a user to interact with the computer, which provides additional security. In other embodiments, the reader is configured to interact with portable computers other than those in the system.

As shown in FIGS. 4-7, generally, the portable computer reader comprises a housing. In various embodiments, the housing is an input/output device itself. For example, the portable computer reader housing may be a component of a conventional desktop or laptop computer, such as a keyboard, monitor, tower, mouse, etc. In other embodiments, the housing is connected to an input/output device. In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, the reader comprises substantially all the elements of a conventional desktop computer such as a keyboard, mouse, display, etc. a display or monitor, a keyboard and a mouse. As shown, it preferably, does not have a structure that would typically house a hard drive because the reader is, preferably, a shell without the portable computer. In other words, it does not contain the inner workings of a traditional desktop computer but contains the unique configuration of the readers of the present invention that allow the readers to interact with the computer but become a shell without the computer. The keyboard and display may be connected by any means known in the art, including a serial bus or wirelessly, for example, by Bluetooth. The mouse may connected by any means, including a USB connection. As also shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, the portable computer readers may include a PDA, a cell phone, or a LAN phone. Where the reader is a cell phone, the card itself has a SIM card so that a user can download information such as phone numbers to the computer. Or, the reader has a SIM card that can become a phone. In this embodiment, the input device is the keyboard, mouse or PDA touch screen or the PDA or phones' keypad. The output device is the various displays, speakers, etc.

In the embodiment shown in FIG. 6, the reader appears as a traditional laptop-type computer. The input device is the keyboard and the output device is the display, speakers, etc. It is noted that the structure supporting the keyboard, in one embodiment, does not contain the inner workings of a traditional laptop but contains the unique configuration of the readers of the present invention that allow the readers to interact with the computer but become a shell without the computer.

In the embodiment shown in FIG. 7, the reader is a touch screen, display or television. Thus, the screen may be the input or output device. Another input/output device may be a microphone. The readers may comprise additional input/output devices such as printers, optical drives, speakers, voice recognition hardware, etc. It would be understood that the reader may take many different forms, for example, it may be a “shell” of a CD or DVD player, radio, etc. In other embodiments, a monitor may be eliminated if desired depending on the application and/or other input devices may be utilized instead of a keyboard, such as a touch screen, voice activated input, etc. The portable computer reader may also be relatively stationary or portable, as may be desired.

The readers also comprise at least one connector for attaching the portable computer to the reader. In one embodiment, the connector is attached to the housing of the portable computer readers. In the embodiments shown in FIGS. 4-7, the connector is within a slot or hole for receiving the portable computer. The slot may be located anywhere on the reader, for example, on the keyboard, as shown in FIG. 4 or on the monitor, as shown in FIG. 5. The portable computer reader connector is configured to mate with any of the aforementioned universal connectors on the portable computer. The connector may include a bus as is known in the art.

In the embodiments shown in FIGS. 4-6, the portable computer reader (generally, card “B”), utilizes a wireless connection to attach to the portable computer, such as an Ethernet or FireWire. The wireless connection may include modems and network cards. These devices may also allow the portable computer to interact with other portable computers. The portable computer reader is configured to send input to and output from the operating system in the portable computer. In addition to the aforementioned connection, the portable computer has means for interacting and communicating with the portable computer reader.

As shown in FIGS. 4-6, the reader may include a biometric scanner or reader. Such a scanner may include a pulse reader, fingerprint reader, retinal scanner, voice recognition recorder, etc. The system may include biometric mice as an input, which includes an integrated fingerprint reader either in the receiver or the mouse. Such biometric information, readers, storage means etc., are disclosed in Applicant's U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/054,519, the contents of which are incorporated by reference herein. In addition, the portable computer may include security information in the software. The security information allows only authorized users to access certain information on the computer. Access information may include personal identification numbers, security questions, passwords, etc. The portable computer may also contain stored or baseline biometric information such as height, weight, blood type, voice and retinal patterns, fingerprints, pulse rate, etc.

As shown in FIG. 8, the portable computer readers preferably have a main circuit board comprising, at least, a GPS chip, graphics processor, CPU, biometric chip and an I/O chip. Internally, the housing of the portable computer reader may also include a heat sink/fan, video cards, PCI buses, etc. The housing may also include external bus controllers to connect to external peripherals, speakers, etc. In one embodiment, the portable computer reader supplies power and connections to the portable computer and peripherals. However, in other embodiments, the portable computer reader does not supply power. Rather, the power is supplied by batteries or another power source, such as solar power cell, coupled to or provided within the portable computer.

The portable computer reader may contain an AC or DC power source and a controller interfacing with the portable computer. Furthermore, location tracking may also be incorporated into the overall system where desired. For example, the reader may be equipped with required front end RF and conversion needed to support a single chip receiver and a global positioning system (GPS) processor in the portable computer. An RF feed may be utilized when the device contained on the card, such as an onboard processor, cannot receive energy from an onboard antenna. In one embodiment, when connected to a playback/send unit, an electrical path is created that connects the Antenna on the playback/send card reader unit to the single chip GPS solution. Power is then applied via the playback/send unit. Upon power-up and a time delay needed for the GPS signal to be processed, time and location information is available. This location and time information may also be used to time stamp designated or every transaction in the digital identification card. Furthermore, the playback/send unit may also contain a biometric fingerprint reader that allows correlation from user to stored biometric information on the card. Only a correct match will allow access to data on the computer.

In one embodiment, the portable computer reader is not completely a shell without the portable computer but includes storage with software loaded thereon for “searching” for a portable computer. Thus, after a device is inserted into the portable computer reader, the system will “search” automatically for a portable computer. Once the portable computer reader finds the portable computer, it substantially, immediately runs the computer programs. In other words, the computer does not need to boot up before it is operational. Rather, the portable computer is ready to work immediately similar to a digital camera. As provided above, the portable computer readers are inert or a shell as a general computing device until the portable computer is connected thereto. The portable computer may be arranged in certain embodiments so that it does not function and is not activated apart from the portable computer reader because the portable computer has all of the components of a conventional computer, except possibly a display and an input source, such as a keyboard/keypad, and may also include at least one connector to a direct power connection, and a communication bus. In these embodiments, the reader may comprise a CPU, a graphics processor and a GPS device, a sound card, a heat sink, storage, circuit board, etc.

In another embodiment, the portable computer is a card and the portable computer reader is a card reader, as set forth in Applicant's prior patent application Ser. No. 10/461,303 ('303 application). The card may be of any desired size and thickness, which may also be attributed to desired capabilities and technologies used, such as memory/storage requirements. As noted above, in certain embodiments, the card is preferably the size of a conventional credit card for easy transport. In addition, storage capabilities of the card can range according to the particular application for the portable computer. Current technologies would readily accommodate a gigabyte plus on the card and it is anticipated that a terabyte or more would also be capable of residing on the card. The card and reader may communicate using any of the means described above, such as over a cellular network. For example, the card and/or reader may incorporate the requisite components necessary to communicate over a cellular network. Alternatively, the card and/or reader may be connected to a cell phone either via a hard-wire connection or a wireless connection. The cell phone with card may then be used for full general computing functions such as accessing the internet, e-mail, word processing, etc. In this embodiment, the card and reader together comprise all of the elements of a fully functioning general purpose computer. In other embodiment, the card may be used in a card reader, which has a built in camera. The reader, with the card, is able to access the internet to download music, movies, television shows, etc. The reader also may include a GPS system and biometric scanners or readers. Where the reader includes a biometric reader, it sends the biometric data to the portable computer for later processing and comparison. Preferably, the card has software that “times-out” the downloaded programs and, therefore, makes them unusable after a certain-period of time. For example, a user may be able to download a movie and then will have a certain period of time in which to view the movie. Once that time expires, or when the user has viewed the movie, it will automatically be deleted from the card, reader or phone. In another embodiment, the user is able to download pre-paid calling minutes to the system. Similarly, the system is capable of automatically deleting any downloaded items if the user violates pre-set terms.

In one embodiment, the computer and portable computer reader form a memory device, such as the identification card described in Applicant's U.S. Pat. No. 7,139,914 ('914 patent) and '303 application, which are incorporated by reference herein, in their entireties. A separate reader, such as those described in the '914 patent and '303 application, may be used to read the information on the identification card. For example, the portable computer may have electronic files that store personal and biometric information. The reader is configured to read the biometric information stored on the portable computer. The portable computer may also comprise a GPS system or location system that may communicate by wireless means with a reader in the form of a scanner, when the card is brought into proximity with the scanner, as described in the '914 patent and '303 application. Information may also be transferred from the identification card (portable computer and the portable computer reader), as described in the '914 patent and '303 application.

In another embodiment, once the portable computer is connected to the portable computer reader, the system becomes a personal digital voice recorder for persons, including but not limited to medical patients and children. In this embodiment, the recorder stores real time voice data, such as non-volatile memory. Recording may start at any desired times, such as by a parent, utilizing the playback/send unit. The recorder may then be attached to a user, such as a child or patient, and all proximity sound to the child or patient is recorded until either a low power condition or a memory full condition is reached. The memory may be scalable according to the amount of recording time and fidelity desired by the parent or authorized custodial person.

In another embodiment, once the portable computer is connected to the portable computer reader, the system becomes an automatic voice notebook, such as for health care professionals on rounds as an example. Similar uses, such as by building inspectors, maintenance or security and Military personnel, as an example, are also anticipated. In this embodiment, memory, such as non-removable, non-volatile memory, such as flash memory, may be used to store encrypted digital data in the record unit. A small cell may be used in this unit to keep size and weight to a minimum. A real-time clock may be embedded in the record unit to be used for time stamping the recorded voice segments. The record unit may have a connector, such as along its bottom surface, which interfaces with a separate playback unit, such as when the record unit is inserted into a recessed opening in its top surface. The playback unit may include conventional features, such as speaker, play button, volume control and “forward/reverse” switch for navigating within the data. Both the record unit and the playback unit may further have identifying features, such as matching bar codes on their housings, which can be used to identify the individual units in case of loss or to confirm identity.

In another embodiment, the portable computer can operate as a backup system to a conventional computer. For example, the portable computer may be connected via a portable computer reader or other wired or wireless connector, such as a USB or FireWire port, to the conventional computer, in order to upload data and other information stored on the conventional computer. In addition, in other embodiments, the portable computer may operate as a primary computing system when connected to a portable computer reader, such as a shell comprising a monitor and keyboard. In still other embodiments, the portable computer may be switched as desired between operating as a backup system or as a primary computing system, as described above. Further, in these and other embodiments, information stored on the portable computer may be downloaded onto another computing system where desired when connected to the portable computer, such as via the USB or FireWire port described above, or any other wired or wireless means.

In the operation of one embodiment, a user connects a card reader/writer to his or her home or office computer. This is a fully functional computer as in known in the art. The user then inserts a “blank,” or new portable computer (for example, Computer “A,” “B,” or “C”) into the card reader/writer. Through application software, the user then is prompted to download virtually all information from the home or office computer onto the portable computer. This includes all programs, operating system, etc. The user is then prompted to provide identifying biometric information such as a fingerprint or retinal scan. This “baseline” information is stored in the portable computer's memory such that only a user with a match of such information may interact with the portable computer. A user is then able to remove the portable computer and take it with him or her. The user then may connect the portable computer with the portable computer reader, which, as provided above is a shell until the portable computer is connected. Once the portable computer is connected to the portable computer reader, the reader automatically searches for the computer. Once it finds the computer, the user must log-on by inputting biometric information. If the information matches, the user is able to interact with the portable computer. Thus, the present invention allows a user to securely use his or her computer virtually anywhere.

The present system provides many advantages. First, because the portable computer is capable of being operated on almost any portable computer reader, it allows a user to transport essentially an entire computer easily for use anywhere. For example, the portable computer may be the size of a credit card, so as to be easily carried in a user's pocket or wallet. And, as provided, the portable computer is capable of performing virtually any computing function once connected to the portable computer reader. Thus, various embodiments of the present invention is not dependent upon a chassis for computing functions such as data retrieval, operating software application, software and video interface. Rather, all of these functions and applications are contained on the portable computer. Examples of the present invention contains all of the storage, processing, video interface and software in the portable computer which allows it to be used with any housing without concern for the version of operating software, application software or video setting. A user can easily carry the portable computer, place within or attach it to a portable computer reader, and then compute as is known in the art. This may include accessing the internet, e-mail, drafting and saving documents, sending and receiving all types of data, including pictures, video and text, etc. For example, the portable computer reader may comprise the required software and hardware for accessing the internet, such as modem and Internet Protocol (“IP”) address. In other embodiments, these devices may be provided on the portable computer. An advantage of various embodiments is that many hardware and software components that are required for conventional computer operation can be contained within the portable computer reader, which enables the portable computer to contain minimal components, which benefits in that the portable computer can be small in size, cost economical to produce and durable. The portable computer acts as the brain and the portable computer reader operates as the body which will perform the functions. However, without the brain, the body will do nothing. When the user is finished computing, he or she simply removes the portable device and can take it with him or her. Because the portable computer reader is a shell, none of the user's information is left behind. Thus, various embodiments of the present invention do not make any information, including sensitive information, available to subsequent users of the shell computer. In addition, there is virtually no danger that the portable computer reader could be affected by a computer virus for this same reason, as there is no capability for the portable computer reader to retain any data from a previous person's use. As a result, the applications for the portable computer are almost limitless where security and privacy of content is a concern, and where there may be concern of corruption by viruses or worms. For example, applications include, but are not limited to, hotels, internet cafes or other public locations, such as libraries or universities, etc. Further, the various embodiments of the present invention provides the portability of a “Pocket PC” with the advantages of a traditional computer. For example, the portable computer is easily transportable and the portable computer reader provides use of a full computer such as a full-sized screen, larger keyboard, etc. that are not available with traditional Pocket PC-type computers. Finally, there is substantially no boot up time with various embodiments of the present invention, due to the arrangement and/or nature of technology utilized. For instance, in certain embodiments, the portable computer may comprise one or more flash memory devices or flash drives. A flash drive is a storage device that uses flash memory rather than conventional spinning platters to store data. The flash drives tend to physically imitate conventional hard drives in performance. The motivation to call it a “drive” comes from the fact that it is serving the purpose of a part that has traditionally been mechanically driven. However, note that nothing is being mechanically driven in a flash drive. Advantages of using flash memory or flash drives with the portable computer is there is little delay time when starting up, such as is the case when booting conventional computers, which drivers take time and also various hardware and software components are checked before the computers are able to be operated by a user. Also, flash memory is non-volatile, which means that it does not need power to maintain the information stored in the device, and as a result, the portable computer in many embodiment requires only low power for operation, which can be readily supplied by batteries or similar low power sources, such as solar cells. The flash memory can also be tailored to provide as much storage capacity as may be desired depending on the particular application.

In addition, as various embodiments of the portable computer can be comprised of minimal components, since the portable computer reader would take up the remainder of the components, such as the monitor and keyboard of a shell computer referenced above, the costs of the portable computer would be greatly reduced over the costs of conventional computing systems. Moreover, use of cost efficient technologies, such as flash memory, can further reduce the costs of the portable computer. As a result, the portable computer in certain embodiments may be viewed as a disposable device due to the cost efficiencies. Also, the small size would result with the device being more environmentally friendly even if disposable as compared to conventional computers. In other embodiments, due to the cost efficiencies, businesses can utilize the portable computer as promotional items, which are provided to users at no cost, or provided to a user who may purchase a related product, such as operating system software, i.e. Windows, or for subscribing to a designate service, such as an internet service provider. In these embodiments, the portable computer reader, i.e. the monitor/keyboard or reader, can be supplied by the business for use with the portable computer or purchased by the user. In addition, in other examples, portable computers may be provided at no or minimal charge to students or employees, who would be able then to use the portable computer with portable computer readers located at designated areas provided by the school, university, business or government, as examples.

Although the invention has been described in terms of exemplary embodiments, it is not limited thereto. Rather, the appended claims should be construed broadly to include other variants and embodiments of the invention which may be made by those skilled in the art without departing from the scope and range of equivalents of the invention. 

1. A computing system comprising: a portable computer comprising: storage; and at least one connector which connects to at least one reader; one or more readers each comprising: a housing; and at least one connector which connects to the portable computer, wherein the portable computer excludes means for a user to interact directly with the portable computer, wherein the portable computer is no greater in size than 90.00 mm×60.00 mm and is no greater than 3 mm thick, wherein the computer is configured so that a user cannot interact with the computer unless the computer is connected to at least on reader, wherein the housing is at least one input and at least one output device that facilitates direct user interaction with the portable computer, wherein the readers are non-functioning shells when not connected to a portable computer, and wherein the readers become fully functional general purpose computer immediately after being connected with a portable computer.
 2. The system of claim 1, wherein the portable computer comprises all of the components of a fully functional general purpose computer.
 3. The system of claim 1, wherein the portable computer comprises a processor, at least one controller, storage, a sound interface and a GPS chip.
 4. The system of claim 3, wherein the computer further comprises a motherboard, graphics chip, a sound card, ROM, at least one device driver adapted to interact with hardware of the readers, a secure cryptoprocessor, an SCSI controller, an IDE interface, and wherein the storage is comprised of a flash memory and ram.
 5. The system of claim 1, wherein the portable computer comprises at least two cards attached to each other, wherein at least one card comprises a central processing unit, at least one controller and a GPS chip, and the at least one other card comprises storage and an operating system, wherein at least one of the cards has the connector for connecting to a reader.
 6. The system of claim 1, wherein the input device is selected from the group consisting of: a keyboard, a keypad, a touch screen, a microphone, a PDA and a video recorder and the output device is selected from the group consisting of: a display, a webcam and speakers.
 7. The system of claim 1, wherein the at least one connector of the portable computer is a wireless transmitter and the at least one connector of the readers is a receiver.
 8. The system of claim 1, wherein the readers comprise at least one biometric scanner selected from the group consisting of: a fingerprint reader, retinal scanner, and pulse reader, wherein the storage device of the computer has a plurality of separate independently accessible compartments for storing different information, wherein the information is accessed and transmitted based on the biometric information read by the biometric scanner such that access to each compartment is controlled by the reading of the biometric scanner.
 9. The system of claim 1, wherein the readers comprise: a power supply; a processor; at least one controller; storage; and software for interacting with the portable computer.
 10. The system of claim 1, wherein the readers are configured so that they will not operate with a computer other than a portable computer of the system.
 11. The system of claim 1, wherein the portable computer is configured to be used with every reader in the system.
 12. The system of claim 1, wherein the housing of the reader is selected from the group consisting of: a PDA, a cell phone, a phone, a touch screen, a television and a laptop type computer.
 13. A portable computer comprising: at least one card comprising: at least one connector which connects to at least one reader for interacting with the reader; and storage, wherein the portable computer excludes means for a user to interact directly with the portable computer independent of the reader, wherein the at least one reader facilitates direct user interaction with the portable computer, with the portable computer configured to be inoperable unless connected to the at least one reader, wherein the at least one card of the portable computer is no larger than 90.00 mm×60.00 mm and is no thicker than 3 mm thick and comprises all of the components of a fully functional general purpose computer.
 14. The portable computer of claim 13, further comprising two cards stacked on top of each other, each card no larger than approximately 90.00 mm×60.00 mm and no thicker than approximately 3 mm thick, wherein one card comprises only the storage and operating system and the other card a processor, wherein at least one card comprises the connector.
 15. The portable computer of claim 13, wherein the storage comprises flash memory and an operating system and the portable computer further comprises one or more selected from the group consisting of a CPU device and a GPS device.
 16. The portable computer of claim 13, wherein the storage of the computer has a plurality of separate independently accessible compartments for storing different information, wherein the reader comprises at least one biometric scanner and wherein the information is accessed and transmitted based on the biometric information read by the biometric scanner such that access to each compartment is controlled by the reading of the biometric scanner.
 17. A method of using a computing system having one or more readers and at least one portable computer configured to interact with the one or more readers, the method comprising: providing at least one portable computer that is no larger than 90.00 mm×60.00 mm and is no thicker than 3 mm thick and comprises all of the components of a fully functional general purpose computer and that excludes an input and output device, the computer configured so that a user cannot interact with the computer unless the computer is connected to the one or more readers; providing at least one reader having an input and output device for interacting with the at least one portable computer, the at least one reader being a non-functional shell; connecting the portable computer to the at least one reader, wherein the at least one reader and the portable computer become a substantially fully functional general purpose computer; interacting with the at least one portable computer via the input and output device of the at least one reader; and disconnecting the portable computer from the at least one reader, whereupon the at least one reader again becomes a non-functional shell.
 18. The method of claim 17, further comprising providing security information if at least one reader identifies a portable computer, the portable computer and the at least one reader determining if the security information is accurate, and if the security information is accurate, interacting with the portable computer via the at least one reader.
 19. The method of claim 17, further comprising: providing a biometric device for verifying identity of the user of the portable computer when connected to the at least one reader; providing a GPS device for identifying location of at least one of the portable computer or the at least one reader; providing an operating system for use when the portable computer is connected to the at least one reader; and providing communication over the internet when the portable computer is connected to the at least one reader. 